Every Monday we celebrate the runners who have joined Team Special Children’s Charities for the Bank of America Chicago Marathon.
This incredible team is using their miles to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Chicago. We are so grateful for their dedication and generosity!
For this week’s Marathon Monday we are featuring a whole bunch of runners who are back for their second (or even third) Chicago Marathon with Team Special Children’s Charities! So far we have 17 returning runners for this year, and five of those are back for their third race with us.
We are thrilled to have runners come back to join our team because we strive to help our runners run their best race, offering discounted training through Chicago Endurance Sports, special team gear, and an incredible race-day headquarters and cheering section at mile 25.5!
Before the race, our headquarters offers team members complimentary gear check, breakfast, coffee, and space to warm up. During the race, family and friends can gather at our cheering section to cheer runners at our cheering section as they head toward the finish line. And after the race, our headquarters is a great place to meet up, recharge, and enjoy our post-race party (including professional massages).
Thank you so much to all of these runners for being a part of our team! Support their efforts by making a donation today!
Read more stories from our Team SCC runners!

Marathon Monday: Talia Skollar
That’s why being part of Team Special Children’s Charities means so much to me—it’s a way to pair something I enjoy with a cause that’s personal, and to be part of something that truly makes an impact.

Marathon Monday: Maria Mergal
Having people in my life with different abilities, I’ve seen firsthand how much it matters for everyone to have the resources and space to thrive. That’s exactly what this organization provides and it’s why this one feels personal.

Marathon Monday: Joey Cheung
This journey isn’t just about finishing a race — it’s about making a difference. Every mile I run is for something bigger than myself.
Thank you for helping me turn miles into meaningful impact.

Marathon Monday: Joseph Traskaski
Through out my life, I have always been a part of activities and events that are sponsoring children/young adults with special needs. I’ve noticed that throughout the years that the help, guidance, supplies, have only gone up in price for these families of children with special needs, and having these opportunities to raise money for these children and adults is one of the kindest things you can do.

Marathon Monday: Jonathan Herrera
Through out my life, I have always been a part of activities and events that are sponsoring children/young adults with special needs. I’ve noticed that throughout the years that the help, guidance, supplies, have only gone up in price for these families of children with special needs, and having these opportunities to raise money for these children and adults is one of the kindest things you can do.

Marathon Monday: Katherine Nappi
As a mom of two, this journey is also about showing my kids the power of inclusion, empowerment, and giving back.